Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analysts leverage technical skills for investing.
What does a Quantitative Analyst do?
Quantitative Analysts use advanced math, statistics, and programming to build models that guide trading and manage risk. They also explore innovative tools like machine learning and large language models to generate investment ideas. The role blends technical skill with creativity and requires clear communication across diverse teams.
Key skills
- Analytical and quantitative
- Programming language proficiency
- Attention to detail
- Communication
Becoming a Quantitative Analyst
Qualifications
In general, firms look for candidates with strong programming and quantitative backgrounds, such as Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, Mathematics, Finance or a related field. Useful certifications include:
- Chartered Financial Analyst®
- Certificate in Quantitative Finance
Who hires a Quantitative Analyst?
Quantitative Analysts are often employed by:
- Hedge funds
- Investment banks
- Asset managers
- Proprietary trading firms
Check out a typical job description
Quantitative Analysts, often called "quants," use data, statistics, and computer models to find patterns in financial markets and support smarter trading and investment decisions. Their day typically involves:
- Analyzing large datasets
- Writing code to build predictive models
- Collaborating with traders to test and refine ideas that could give the firm a competitive edge
To be effective, quants also need strong communication skills to explain complex concepts clearly to diverse audiences.
Now let’s talk career progression
Where this role could take you
Quantitative Analysts typically start as junior quants or quant researchers, focusing on data analysis and model development.
With experience, you can move into senior quant roles, leading research projects and mentoring others. From there, career paths often branch into portfolio management, risk management, strategy leadership, or quantitative trading, and you may eventually become a Chief Investment Office (CIO) or start your own hedge fund.
Your future
A Quantitative Analyst role can open doors to a wide range of careers. You could move into quantitative trading, where you directly manage strategies and capital.
You may also transition into portfolio management, risk management, or machine learning research roles, either within finance or in tech companies. If you’re entrepreneurial, you can also go on to launch your own hedge funds or fintech startups.
You could also eventually become a senior leader like a CIO. Skills such as data analysis, coding and critical thinking are highly transferable and in demand across industries.
The right role for you?
To know if a Quantitative Analyst role is right for you, ask yourself: Do I enjoy solving complex problems? This role suits people who are curious, analytical, and comfortable working independently on technical challenges and in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
Work can be intense; decisions can impact millions of dollars. It can involve long workdays and high stress, especially when models must be updated quickly to reflect market changes.
Find your fit in finance
Have you checked out our quiz yet? Discover which finance career paths align with your passions, strengths, and values.